"I will continue to work closely with the workforce, unions, government, local authorities and other key partners to maintain the high standards of the Scottish fire and rescue services.

"Above all, the single Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will strengthen the connections with all communities and the people we serve.

"This new service will be efficient and effective, and focused on the needs of the people who depend on the vital services our dedicated workforce delivers."

The fire service Mr Hay will head will have a workforce of more than 9,000 firefighters and support staff.

He was appointed after a nationwide recruitment process, with candidates from across the UK putting themselves forward for the post.

Community safety minister Roseanna Cunningham said that Mr Hay had "the experience and attributes to be an outstanding first Chief Officer for the new single service".

She added: "He has passion for the service and genuine commitment for the successful delivery of the new single structure."

Ms Cunningham said she was confident Mr Hay would work with others to "ensure the continued delivery of excellent fire and rescue services in communities right in all parts of Scotland".

The Scottish Government has said creating single police and fire services will save £1.7 billion over 15 years.

Legislation to merge the regional forces was granted Royal Assent last week.

Recruitment is under way for a chief constable for the new national police force.

The appointment was welcomed by the Chief Fire Officers Association Scotland, whose chair David Dalziel said: "The association would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Alasdair Hay on his appointment.

"We look forward to working with him in making the transition to the single service as smooth and successful as possible."

Labour's Jenny Marra also congratulated Mr Hay on the appointment.

The MSP said: "There are challenges ahead to ensure that the new single service is ready in time for its launch and to ensure that Scots continue to receive an ever-improving service once the force is up and running next year.

"I know Mr Hay from Tayside Fire and Rescue, and know him to be someone who is trusted, respected and gets the best out of his staff.

"I look forward to meeting with Mr Hay in due course to hear how the preparatory work is going and to understand what he sees as the biggest challenges facing the single service."